NEW DELHI: Delhi residents woke up to another day of smog, marking the eighth consecutive day of 'very poor' air quality following Diwali celebrations. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported an
Air Quality Index (AQI) of 383 as of 8am on Friday.
Visibility was significantly reduced in areas like Tilak Marg, where the surrounding AQI fell to 349. Other areas like Alipur, Bawana, and Dwarka Sector 8 reported AQI levels ranging from 374 to 440, categorized as "very poor" and even reaching "severe" levels. These conditions pose significant health risks to the population.
This persistent air pollution coincided with Chhath Puja celebrations. Drone footage revealed thick, toxic foam floating on the Yamuna River in Kalindi Kunj, where devotees traditionally offer prayers. This situation prompted a legal challenge to the ban on performing Chhath Puja rituals directly on the riverbanks.
However, the Delhi High Court declined to lift the ban, citing the severe contamination of the Yamuna River and potential health risks. The court noted: "Allowing people to perform the puja in the river could lead to health issues." The court also highlighted the availability of nearly 1,000 alternative locations designated for the celebration.
Meanwhile, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai called for a collaborative effort among North Indian states to address the pollution crisis.
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